It is a separate blood test from the PCR (viral load test). I think they usually do it after the PCR, after the viral load has been confirmed. Here is some information on genotypes if you are interested:
http://www.medhelp.org/user_journals/show/327615/Hep-C-Genotypes Advocate1955
Like DWBH said it is a blood test. Before I had my biopsy I knew what Genotype I was. I thought they did that when they checked for a viral load Good luck Dee
http://www.medhelp.org/user_journals/show/327615/Hep-C-Genotypes
Advocate1955